A cyber initiative has been brought to life at West Lothian College.
CyberDrive, which is a roaming cyber security unit creating pop up cyber labs in West Lothian high schools and communities, was launched at the college’s recent Open Day.
College cyber experts will transport high-end technology to secondary schools where they will deliver hands-on workshops on cyber security, coding and virtual reality.
The initiative was brought to life in partnership with tech industry body, ScotlandIS, who secured funding from the Scottish Government.
The West Lothian Development Trust funded the van that will take these workshops to towns and villages across the county.
Young people will be introduced to cutting-edge technology, challenges and opportunities in the world of cyber security through workshops on Encryption Breaking, Cyber Security, Digital Forensics, Python Coding, Robotics, and Virtual Reality.
Principal of West Lothian College, Jackie Galbraith, said: “Technology is changing the way we work, learn and play. Getting the most out of this needs people with the right skills to create solutions that are human-led while powered by digital technology.
“Young people today have grown up in a digital world, yet many choose not to study or work in tech.
“CyberDrive aims to spark interest in this exciting field of work where highly paid, rewarding jobs are abundant.”
Karen Meechan, CEO, ScotlandIS, added: “We are very excited about this initiative, which aims to engage our young people in the wide range of cybersecurity careers that are available.
“Our 2023 Scottish Technology Industry Survey reported that demand for cybersecurity skills increased by 12 per cent from the previous year, and the sector in Scotland is constantly growing.
“This is a great chance to get school children to build these skills that they may otherwise not have the opportunity to develop.”
For further information on CyberDrive please contact Andrea Moore (amoore@west-lothian.ac.uk).